‘The two main reasons for breast implant insertions are post mastectomy (removal of the breast due to cancer) or for cosmetic reasons, usually to enhance the size or the shape of the breast. However, as with any cosmetic surgery, breast implant insertions are not a quick fix and therefore not a decision to be made lightly. Not only should people think about the reason for having them but also they should understand the possibility of post operation complications and also the psychological impact on the body.

As with all types of elective surgery, breast implantation has its drawbacks. These include:

Adverse reactions to the anaesthetic

Excessive bleeding

Risk of infection

The development of blood clots

Capsular contracture (scar tissue begins to shrink leading to tightening and squeezing of the implant causing moderate to severe pain.)

Implant rupturing (a split appears in the implants capsule.)

Siliconomas (the silicone implant ruptures which in turn may spread outside the scar capsule and into the breast tissue itself.)

Gel Bleeds (tiny silicone particles leak to the surface of the breast implant. This can happen even without the implant rupturing.)

Scarring (natural scarring turns lumpy or thick or is painful to touch.)

Creasing or folds (breast implants can affect the appearance of the skin on the breast such as abnormal creases, kinks, folds or ripples. However, this mainly occurs in women who have very small breasts prior to surgery.)

With these disadvantages outweighing the possible advantages, we have to understand the perceived importance of women’s breast size in society today.

Breast implantation maybe be undertaken in order to improve an individual’s self-esteem. The individual might feel that by having a breast implant, the world will view her differently. Studies have shown however that this is not necessarily the case.

For women who have had a Mastectomy, breast implants can help them return to life. Some people even believe that implant surgery gives them a positive attitude in their fight against cancer.

We all want to look and feel our best, but it is very important to have a healthy self-image prior to the procedure. With this in mind, our advice is that if you are considering breast enlargement surgery do not jump into it without considering other possibilities such as using prosthesis (an artificial breast). Speak to women who have been through the procedure and get their advice. Whatever you decide to do, make sure that you feel good with yourself because of who you are not because of what you have.’